. >> reporter: and texas. this is a holiday season military families around the country will not forget. >> it's hard to describe that feeling of being reunited with your child after so long. >> oh, baby. >> oh, my god. >> reporter: the surprise homecomings can begin to look very similar. [ screaming ] >> reporter: each one has its own story and emotion. in reno, nevada, first grader cody was speechless, as he watched his mom walk through his school's doors after being away for nearly a year. >> very difficult to be separated from cody. at the same time, i have a lot of pride in what i do. >> i love her. >> oh. >> daddy. >> reporter: in fair field, california, staff sergeant, brett randall, is home on leave from afghanistan, long enough to surprise his wife, 4-year-old daughter at his dance recital. >> i love you. >> reporter: he won't spend time shopping for christmas. he just wants to be with his family. but after his third tour in iraq, this homecoming in pennsylvania was extra special, thanks to the end of